Floating Covers

How to Decide When to Use RPE vs RPP Liners

How to Decide When to Use RPE vs RPP Liners

December 19, 2016 | By Btl Liners

At BTL Liners, we proudly fabricate liners, tarps and covers from both reinforced polyethylene (RPE) and reinforced polypropylene materials. We’ve fabricated and installed nearly one billion square feet of RPE liners, making us one of the most trusted and relied upon manufacturers in the industry. We’re often asked what situations call for the use of RPE liners and when to use RPP liners. This week, we discuss the differences between the two liner materials and when you should use each.

The Difference Between RPE and RPP Liners

The main difference between RPE and RPP liners comes in how they are made. RPE liners are coated in liquid plastic, while RPP liners are coated and pressed. Because RPP liners are pressed, it allows the coating to go into and through the scrim, which is better for surface welding and won’t peel off. RPP liners have a thicker coating than RPE liners.

Applications for RPP Liners

RPP liners are great for above ground containment, from drop-in liners to floating covers. RPP liners work well inside tanks. Additionally, RPP liners are recommended for low levels of byproducts and low chemical mixtures. With their high level of chemical, UV and weather resistance, RPP liners work well for secondary containment, at wastewater treatment plants and for floating covers and drop-in tank liners.

Applications for RPE Liners

RPE liners are most commonly used for water containment. Due to its unmatched puncture and tear resistance, RPE shines as one of the best liner materials for water containment. When RPE is manufactured, only virgin resins are used. An LLDPE coating is applied to add UV and abrasion resistance. This also makes it highly impermeable and gives it enhanced welding properties. RPE liners are best for use in ponds, irrigation canals, reservoirs and for short-term soil remediation.

RPP and RPE liners both have many benefits and can be used in a variety of applications. RPE liners tend to be better for water containment, while RPP works well for floating covers and secondary containment. Contact BTL Liners for more information about RPE and RPP liners and which material works best for your specific application.